Polling
results on use of open space funds

Aug. 4, 2016 - Eagle County has received results from telephone polling conducted in July regarding the expansion of the use of county open space funds.

Pollsters contacted 300 community members, who were asked about their views on expanding the existing open space program to allow for construction and maintenance of paved and unpaved trails, without raising the open space mill levy. Key findings include:

Support for an open space and trails extension measure is broad, with support staying consistently above 60% throughout an exchange of messaging.

Respondents indicated no difference between an open‐ended measure and one with a 20‐year sunset in the ballot language. Voters accept a permanent measure as long as there is no increase in rates.

In their own words, voters described water quality, habitat and open space preservation as their motivation for a “yes” vote. “No” voters had a more general anti‐tax stance.

In addition, 70 percent of respondents said “things in Eagle County are generally headed in the right direction.” Polling conducted earlier this summer to determine community support for potential sales tax increases for affordable housing and early childhood programs also tested positively.

The Board of County Commissioners has not yet determined whether to go to the voters with any questions in November. The board is slated to discuss potential ballot issues during their regular work session on Aug. 8. All work sessions are open to the public; however, they do not include time for public input. Any proposed ballot questions must be scheduled for consideration during a future public hearing, which will include ample opportunity for community comment.

The deadline for placing items on the ballot is Sept. 7. For more information, contact County Manager Brent McFall at 970-328-8607.